Congrats to our Adventures Abroad photo contest winners!

After much deliberation,  Academic Arrangements Abroad‘s panel of experts has selected the winners of this year’s photo contest, titled Adventures Abroad.

Chinese New Year in Rome 1st Place Winner — by Lisa Shalom

The first prize— $1,000 credit on one of our 2014/2015 cruises—goes to Lisa Shalom for her photograph “Chinese New Year in Rome,” taken in the Eternal City during this vibrant celebration. ” I love the gorgeous color and composition, and the stop action of the woman’s jeweled headpiece across her face while she was moving,” says panelist Cathy Farber, Vice President of Marketing & Communications.

Adrift in Burano 2nd Place Winner — by Casey Cochran

 Casey Cochran’s shot of boats in Venice took second prize: a $500 credit on any of our 2014/2015 cruises. “The rich color palate and composition are what first drew me in,” says guest judge Daniel Kukla, who was recently selected for the Arctic Circle Residency, a sailing expedition in the High Arctic in October 2014. Kukla adds: “But what kept me looking was the reflection in the water, which shows the shows the buildings and sky and provides a unique view of this unique place.”

Tasmania, Australia 3rd Place Winner — by Haley Hunter

The third prize, a micro luggage scale (handy for avoiding overweight bag fees), goes to Haley Hunter for her image of a Tasmanian landscape. “This photo shows one of the most remote and stunning places in the world,” says Farber. “We hope travelers will join us to discover other less-visited destinations, like Colombia, Central Asia, and Kashmir.”

Acro yoga in Puerto Rico by Danielle Robidoux

Finally, this year’s People’s Choice award goes to Danielle Robidoux for her shot of Acro yoga, which blends yoga and acrobatics, on a beach in Puerto Rico. She also received a micro luggage scale.

Academic Arrangements Abroad sponsored this photo contest to raise awareness of its adventure travel programs–a newer offering for a company that has long been known for its culturally-focused tours. On these more active trips, travelers can enjoy one-of-a-kind experiences like discovering ancient temples in Sri Lanka, exploring Roman ruins in fascinating Tunisia, or hiking along the Camino de Santiago in Spain.

Travel Quiz Answer

Trivia fans, here is the eagerly awaited response to our quiz question:

The Horses of St. Mark’s (the 4 bronze statues set into the basilica’s façade) have been displayed in which two cities aside from Venice?

Answer:  They were originally displayed in the Hippodrome of Constantinople (Istanbul) and were later brought to Paris by Napoleon in the 18th century.

Thanks to all who played along!

Ring in 2012 Somewhere Special

If you’re one of those people who ignore the rabblerousing of New Year’s Eve or is usually disappointed by how the evening turns out, boy are we going to make you jealous.

How about dancing the night away at the sumptuous Tsar’s Ball in Catherine Palace in St. Petersburg? Or for something more low key, raise a toast in the Galapagos, anchored off the birder’s paradise of Tower Island. You could also welcome the new year in newly democratic Cairo or watch fireworks burst over the Grand Canal in Venice.

So whether you are enticed by the magic of Russia in winter, the stunning natural world of the Galapagos, the elegance of six nights at the Danieli or the historic wonders of Egypt and Jordan, one thing is for sure: You will not be disappointed.

Venice’s Regata Storica

Most people have heard of the Venice Biennale, the major international contemporary art exhibition held every two years since 1895. But not as many are aware of the Regata Storica, or Historic Regatta, a water pageant and rowing races that take place the first Sunday of September.

Regattas have been held in this maritime city for hundreds of years, but the term “Regata Storica” was first coined 1899. The day’s festivities begin with a parade of intricately carved boats carrying the Doge and other important officials decked out in 16^th-century brightly colored brocade dress. This historical procession commemorates the transfer of the rule of Cyprus by Venice native and widow of the King of Cyprus, Caterina Cornaro, in 1489.

Then the cheers really fill the Grand Canal as the spectators lining the route shout support to the competitors in the children’s, women’s, caorline (six-oar) and gondolini (racing gondolas) races.

After the contests, seemingly everyone else who has access to a boat climbs in and takes to the canals of La Serinissima to celebrate, then spills out to various piazzas to continue the festivities.

Have you been to Venice during one of their festive celebrations?